England secures 4-2 victory over Croatia in World Cup opener

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 10:04 PM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

England secures 4-2 victory over Croatia in World Cup opener
Summary

In a thrilling World Cup opener, England defeated Croatia 4-2 on June 17 in Texas. The match saw Harry Kane score twice and Jude Bellingham add to the tally shortly after halftime. Despite a shaky first half that allowed Croatia to equalize twice, England regrouped after a halftime adjustment from coach Thomas Tuchel. Substitutes Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford played pivotal roles, with Rashford sealing the win late in the game. England takes an early lead in Group L with this important victory.

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By the Numbers
  • Match took place on June 17 in Texas
  • England leads Group L after this victory
  • Kane equals Gary Lineker's World Cup record
  • Rashford and Saka impact off the bench
  • England overcame early defensive struggles
Latest Updates
  • 11:10 PMYahoo SportsEngland player ratings as Three Lions open World Cup campaign with Croatia win
  • 10:04 PMYahoo SportsEngland player ratings vs Croatia: Who impressed in World Cup opener?
What they're saying
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England’s electrifying attack took charge of Group L with all three points in a 4-2 victory over Croatia who scored two impressive goals which made for a 2026 FIFA World Cup thriller.A captain’s b...

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England 4-2 Croatia: Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka came off the bench and combined to seal an impressive victory, after a shaky start

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